Telescoping frame system for portable home or other structure

ABSTRACT

A telescoping frame system comprising a longitudinal surface, first and second attachment arms; a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal surface; a first pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel; a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel; and first and second brace arms that maintain each pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended. The first and second pivot arms are pivotally attached to the first and second attachment arms, respectively. The first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end of the main arm, and the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to a second end of the main arm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/897,390 filed on May 18, 2013, which is acontinuation-in-party of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/674,641filed on Nov. 12, 2012.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of portablestructures, and more specifically, to a telescoping frame system for aportable home or other structure.

2. Description of the Related Art

Telescoping structures have existed for some time, but the presentinvention is unique in that it provides a telescoping frame with tworoller wheels and two pivoting arms that hold the structure securelywhether it is an extended or retracted position. The telescoping frameof the present invention also tightens the structure, locking the secondhalf of the structure into the first half, when the structure is in afully retracted position. In addition, the telescoping frameaccommodates electric and communications cabling and can be used with amanual or electric actuation system.

Other examples of prior art systems for foldable, movable or collapsiblestructures include U.S. Pat. No. 113,476 (Williams, 1871); U.S. Pat. No.3,060,521 (Greco, 1960); U.S. Pat. No. 3,719,386 (Puckett et al., 1973);and U.S. Pat. No. 5,297,368 (Okada, 1994). Additional references arecited in the Information Disclosure Statement submitted in connectionwith this application and are incorporated by reference herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a telescoping frame system comprising: anon-telescoping frame comprising a longitudinal side, a first attachmentarm and a second attachment arm; a main arm that is parallel to thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame; a first pivot arm with atop surface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel; a second pivotarm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel; afirst brace arm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degreeangle to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame when thefirst pivot arm is fully extended; and a second brace arm that maintainsthe second pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal sideof the non-telescoping frame when the second pivot arm is fullyextended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the firstattachment arm, and the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to thesecond attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotallyattached to a first end of the main arm, and the second roller wheel ispivotally attached to a second end of the main arm; wherein when theroller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal side of thenon-telescoping frame, the main arm is also moved toward thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame and remains parallel tothe longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame; and wherein when themain arm has been moved so that it is adjacent to the longitudinal sideof the non-telescoping frame, the brace arms are removed to allow thepivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward and securedto a center bracket on the main arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the non-telescoping frame comprises arectangular perimeter frame, one or more forklift pockets, one or morelongitudinal skids, and a cable tray. Preferably, the non-telescopingframe comprises a first lateral end and a second lateral end, the firstattachment arm is perpendicular to the longitudinal side of thenon-telescoping frame and situated a first distance inside of the firstlateral end of the non-telescoping frame, the second attachment arm isperpendicular to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame andsituated a second distance inside of the second lateral end of thenon-telescoping frame, and the first distance is roughly equal to thesecond distance. The present invention preferably further comprises anactuator that extends laterally through the non-telescoping frame, theactuator having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end ofthe actuator is secured to the center bracket, and the second end of theactuator is connected to a motor.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and second pivot arms eachcomprises a distal end, and the distal end of each pivot arm comprisesan upwardly extending stop that prevents the roller wheel from travelingoff the distal end of the pivot arm. Preferably, the main arm furthercomprises a saddle bracket for installing a structure on top of the mainarm.

In yet another preferred embodiment, each of the first and second bracearms comprises a first extension on a first end of the brace arm, asecond extension in roughly the center of the brace arm, and a thirdextension on a second end of the brace arm, the first pivot arm havingan inside surface and a center, the invention further comprising a firstreceptacle secured to the inside surface of the first pivot arm atroughly the center of the first pivot arm, the second pivot arm havingan inside surface and a center, the invention further comprising asecond receptacle secured to the inside surface of the second pivot armat roughly the center of the second pivot arm; the longitudinal side ofthe non-telescoping frame having an outside edge, a center, a first endand a second end, the invention further comprising a third receptaclesecured to the outside edge of the longitudinal side of thenon-telescoping frame between the center of the longitudinal edge and afirst end of the longitudinal side and a fourth receptacle secured tothe outside edge of the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping framebetween the center of the longitudinal side and a second end of thelongitudinal side; wherein each of the first, second, third and fourthreceptacles is configured to accept one of the first, second and thirdextensions of the first and second brace arms.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot arm has a vertical positionrelative to the attachment arm, and the vertical position of the pivotarm relative to the attachment arm is adjustable. In one embodiment, theinvention further comprises a power actuation system for moving the mainarm toward and away from the longitudinal side of the non-telescopingframe. In another embodiment, the invention further comprises a manualactuation system for moving the main arm toward and away from thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame.

In an alternate embodiment, the present invention is a telescoping framesystem comprising: a non-telescoping frame comprising a longitudinalside, a first attachment arm, a second attachment arm, and a thirdattachment arm; a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal side ofthe non-telescoping frame; a first pivot arm with a top surface thatacts as a rail for a first roller wheel, a second pivot arm with a topsurface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel, and a third pivotarm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a third roller wheel; afirst brace arm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degreeangle to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame when thefirst pivot arm is fully extended, a second brace arm that maintains thesecond pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal side ofthe non-telescoping frame when the second pivot arm is fully extended,and a third brace arm that maintains the third pivot arm at aninety-degree angle to the longitudinal side of the non-telescopingframe when the third pivot arm is fully extended; wherein the firstpivot arm is pivotally attached to the first attachment arm, the secondpivot arm is pivotally attached to the second attachment arm, and thethird pivot arm is pivotally attached to the third attachment arm;wherein the first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end ofthe main arm, the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to a centerof the main arm, and the third roller wheel is pivotally attached to asecond end of the main arm, wherein when the roller wheels are movedtoward the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame, the main armis also moved toward the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frameand remains parallel to the longitudinal side of the non-telescopingframe; and wherein when the main arm has been moved so that it isadjacent to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame, thebrace arms are removed to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivotarms are pivoted inward and secured to the main arm.

In another alternate embodiment, the present invention is a telescopingframe system comprising: a non-telescoping frame comprising alongitudinal side, a first attachment arm, a second attachment arm, athird attachment arm, and a fourth attachment arm; a main arm that isparallel to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame; a firstpivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first rollerwheel, a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for asecond roller wheel, a third pivot arm with a top surface that acts as arail for a third roller wheel, and a fourth pivot arm with a top surfacethat acts as a rail for a fourth roller wheel; a first brace arm thatmaintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame when the first pivot armis fully extended, a second brace arm that maintains the second pivotarm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal side of thenon-telescoping frame when the second pivot arm is fully extended, athird brace arm that maintains the third pivot arm at a ninety-degreeangle to the longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame, when thethird pivot arm is fully extended, and a fourth brace arm that maintainsthe fourth pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal sideof the non-telescoping frame when the fourth pivot arm is fullyextended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the firstattachment arm, the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to the secondattachment arm, the third pivot arm is pivotally attached to the thirdattachment arm, and the fourth pivot arm is pivotally attached to thefourth attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel pivotally attachedto a first end of the main arm, the second roller wheel is pivotallyattached to the main arm at a point between the first end of the mainarm and a second end of the main arm, the third roller wheel ispivotally attached to the main arm at a point between the first end ofthe main arm and the second end of the main arm, and the fourth rollerwheel is pivotally attached to the second end of the main arm; whereinwhen the roller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal side of thenon-telescoping frame, the main arm is also moved toward thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame and remains parallel tothe longitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame; and wherein when themain arm has been moved so that it is adjacent to the longitudinal sideof the non-telescoping frame, the brace arms are removed to allow thepivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward and securedto the main arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention further comprises a poweractuation system for moving the main arm toward and away from thelongitudinal side of the non-telescoping frame. In another preferredembodiment, the invention further comprises a manual actuation systemfor moving the main arm toward and away from the longitudinal side ofthe non-telescoping frame.

In another alternate embodiment, the present invention is a telescopingframe system comprising: a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm,and a second attachment arm; a main arm that is parallel to thelongitudinal surface; a first pivot arm with a top surface that acts asa rail for a first roller wheel and a second pivot arm with a topsurface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel; and a first bracearm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to thelongitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended and asecond brace arm that maintains the second pivot arm at a ninety-degreeangle to the longitudinal surface when the second pivot arm is fullyextended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the firstattachment arm, and the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to thesecond attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotallyattached to a first end of the main arm, and the second roller wheel ispivotally attached to a second end of the main arm; wherein when theroller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal surface, the main arm isalso moved toward the longitudinal surface and remains parallel to thelongitudinal surface; and wherein when the main arm has been moved sothat it is adjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms areremoved to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivotedinward and secured to the main arm.

In another alternate embodiment, the present invention is a telescopingframe system comprising: a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm,a second attachment arm, and a third attachment arm; a main arm that isparallel to the longitudinal surface; a first pivot arm with a topsurface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel, a second pivot armwith a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel, and athird pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a thirdroller wheel; and a first brace arm that maintains the first pivot armat a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the firstpivot arm is fully extended, a second brace arm that maintains thesecond pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surfacewhen the second pivot arm is fully extended, and a third brace arm thatmaintains the third pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to thelongitudinal surface when the third pivot arm is fully extended; whereinthe first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the first attachment arm,the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to the second attachment arm,and the third pivot arm is pivotally attached to the third attachmentarm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first endof the main arm, the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to acenter of the main arm, and the third roller wheel is pivotally attachedto a second end of the main arm; wherein when the roller wheels aremoved toward the longitudinal surface, the main arm is also moved towardthe longitudinal surface and remains parallel to the longitudinalsurface; and wherein when the main arm has been moved so that it isadjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms are removed toallow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward andsecured to the main arm.

In another alternate embodiment, the present invention is a telescopingframe system comprising: a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm,a second attachment arm, a third attachment arm, and a fourth attachmentarm; a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal surface; a firstpivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first rollerwheel, a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for asecond roller wheel, a third pivot arm with a top surface that acts as arail for a third roller wheel, and a fourth pivot arm with a top surfacethat acts as a rail for a fourth roller wheel; and a first brace armthat maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to thelongitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended, asecond brace arm that maintains the second pivot arm at a ninety-degreeangle to the longitudinal surface when the second pivot arm is fullyextended, a third brace arm that maintains the third pivot arm at aninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the third pivot armis fully extended, and a fourth brace arm that maintains the fourthpivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when thefourth pivot arm is fully extended; wherein the first pivot arm ispivotally attached to the first attachment arm, the second pivot arm ispivotally attached to the second attachment arm, the third pivot arm ispivotally attached to the third attachment arm, and the fourth pivot armis pivotally attached to the fourth attachment arm, wherein the firstroller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end of the main arm, thesecond roller wheel is pivotally attached to the main arm at a pointbetween the first end of the main arm and a second end of the main arm,the third roller wheel is pivotally attached to the main arm at a pointbetween the first end of the main arm and the second end of the mainarm, and the fourth roller wheel is pivotally attached to the second endof the main arm; wherein when the roller wheels are moved toward thelongitudinal surface, the main arm is also moved toward the longitudinalsurface and remains parallel to the longitudinal surface of thenon-telescoping frame; and wherein when the main arm has been moved sothat it is adjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms areremoved to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivotedinward and secured to the main arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention further comprises a poweractuation system for moving the main arm toward and away from thelongitudinal surface. In another preferred embodiment, the inventionfurther comprises a manual actuation system for moving the main armtoward and away from the longitudinal surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a first top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully extended position.

FIG. 2 is a second top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully extended position.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the present invention shown with the main arm ina fully extended position.

FIG. 4 is a first top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a partially extended/partially retracted position.

FIG. 5 is a second top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a partially extended/partially retracted position.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the present invention shown with the main arm ina extended/partially retracted position.

FIG. 7 is a first top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully retracted position.

FIG. 8 is a second top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully retracted position.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the present invention shown with the main arm ina fully retracted position.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the brace arm of the present invention.

FIG. 10A is a detail perspective view of the brace arm in a braceposition.

FIG. 10B is a detail perspective view of the brace arm removed from thebrace position.

FIG. 10C is a detail perspective view of the brace arm in a transportposition.

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the present invention with thepivot arms at a forty-five (45)-degree angle relative to the main arm.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the present invention with the pivot arms at aforty-five (45)-degree angle relative to the main arm.

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the present invention with thepivot arms in a fully retracted position.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the present invention with the pivot arms in afully retracted position.

FIG. 15 is a detail perspective view of the pivot arms stowed on thecenter bracket of the main arm.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the pivot arm of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the roller wheel and roller wheelbracket of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fully extended.

FIG. 19 is a section view of the pivot point shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm at a forty-five(45)-degree angle relative to the main arm.

FIG. 21 is a section view of the pivot point shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fully retracted/stowed.

FIG. 23 is a section view of the pivot point shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point shown in FIGS.18 and 19.

FIG. 25 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point shown in FIGS.20 and 21.

FIG. 26 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point shown in FIGS.22 and 23.

FIG. 27 is a first perspective view of the present invention shown withthe main arm in a fully extended position and with a manual actuationsystem.

FIG. 28 is a second top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully extended position and with a manualactuation system.

FIG. 29 is a top view of the present invention shown with the main armin a fully extended position and with a manual actuation system.

FIG. 30 is a first bottom perspective view of the present inventionshown with a structure on top of it.

FIG. 31 is a second bottom perspective view of the present inventionshown with a structure on top of it.

FIG. 32 is a detail perspective view of the roller wheel on the pivotarm with the main arm in a fully extended position.

FIG. 33 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point between theattachment arm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fullyextended.

FIG. 34 is a detail bottom perspective view of the present inventionshowing the pivot point between the attachment arm and the pivot arm.

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of the main arm, roller wheel and pivot arm.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the present invention with three pivotarms and two actuators.

FIG. 37 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the present invention with four pivotarms and two actuators.

FIG. 39 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 38.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the present invention with four pivotarms and three actuators.

FIG. 41 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention without the rectangular perimeter frame and with two pivotarms and one actuator.

FIG. 43 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention without the rectangular perimeter frame and with three pivotarms and two actuators.

FIG. 45 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention without the rectangular perimeter frame and with four pivotarms and two actuators.

FIG. 47 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 44.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention without the rectangular perimeter frame and with four pivotarms and three actuators.

FIG. 49 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 48.

REFERENCE NUMBERS  1 Non-telescoping frame  2 Main arm  2a Hole (in mainarm)  3 Pivot arm  3a Under-support (of pivot arm)  4 Brace arm  4aCenter extension (of brace arm)  4b First end extension (of brace arm) 4c Second end extension (of brace arm)  5 Rectangular perimeter frame 5a Longitudinal side (of perimeter frame)  6 Forklift pocket  7 Skid  8Cable tray  9 Cabling 10 Motor 11 Linear actuator 12 Attachment arm 12aHole (in attachment arm) 13 Cable tubing 14 Roller wheel 14a Rollerwheel bracket 14b Upwardly extending pin 14c Axle (of roller wheel) 15Stop 16 Saddle bracket 17 Center bracket 17a Supporting bracket 18Pin/bolt 19 Receptacle 20 Threaded bolt 21 Nut 22 Sleeve (on attachmentarm) 23 Sleeve (on main arm) 24 Lateral tube 25 Lateral rectangularconduit 26 Longitudinal surface

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a first top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully extended position. As shown in this figure,the invention comprises a non-telescoping frame 1, a main arm 2, twopivot arms 3, and two brace arms 4. The non-telescoping frame preferablycomprises a rectangular perimeter frame 5, one or more forklift pockets6, one or more longitudinal skids 7, and a cable tray 8. The purpose ofthe cable tray 8 is to hold the electric and communications cabling 9.As used herein, the term “rectangular” also means square.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 incorporates a power (motor) actuationsystem. The power actuation system comprises an electric motor 10 with alinear actuator 11. In a preferred embodiment, the inventors used acustom-built linear actuator specifically manufactured by Venture Mfg.Co. (of Dayton, Ohio) for the present invention. The actuator 11 is usedto push the main arm 2 out (i.e. extend it) and pull it in (i.e.,retract it). An alternate embodiment in which a manual actuation systemis used is shown in FIGS. 27-29.

The non-telescoping frame 1 further comprises two attachment arms 12,which provide an attachment point for the pivot arms 3, as shown indetail in subsequent figures. The two attachments arms 12 are orientedlaterally (relative to the non-telescoping frame 1), and they are eachsituated an equal distance inside of the lateral ends of the perimeterframe 5. The skids 7 are preferably oriented longitudinally (relative tothe non-telescoping frame 1), and they are situated underneath therectangular perimeter frame 5. The skids 7 are used to transport thestructure that is installed on top of the present invention. Theforklift pockets 5 are preferably oriented laterally (relative to thenon-telescoping frame 1), and are situated between the rectangularperimeter frame 5 and the skids 7. Similarly, the attachment arms 12 arepreferably situated between the rectangular perimeter frame 5 and theskids 7. The purpose of the forklift pockets 6 is to allow a forklift tolift the frame (and whatever structure is installed upon it).

As used herein, the term “lateral” or “laterally” means in the directionindicated with X's on FIG. 1. The term “longitudinal” or“longitudinally” means in the direction indicated with Y's on FIG. 1.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuator 11 extends laterally through thecenter of the non-telescoping frame 1. The actuator 11 is secured on oneend (the end opposite the motor 10) to a center bracket 17 that is alsoattached to the main arm 2 and that extends downward from the center ofthe main arm 2. The cabling 9 is protected by cable tubing 13 thatextends laterally between the non-telescoping frame 1 and the main arm2. The cable tubing 13 extends laterally from the cable tray 8, whichcan be situated anywhere on the non-telescoping frame 1.

The main arm 2 is parallel to the longitudinal sides of the perimeterframe 5. The main arm 2 is attached at its center to the center bracket17. On either end of the main arm 2 is a roller wheel 14 (see FIG. 2)that travels along (in a lateral direction) the top surface of the pivotarm 3 (which acts as a rail) when the pivot arm 3 is fully extended (asshown in FIGS. 1-9). The two brace arms 4 maintain the pivot arms 3 atninety (90)-degree angles to the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeterframe 5. The present invention is not limited to any particular shape ofthe non-rectangular frame, as long as it has at least one longitudinalside 5 a that is straight.

FIG. 2 is a second top perspective view of the present invention shownwith the main arm in a fully extended position. In this view, the rollerwheels 14 are visible. They are not visible in FIG. 1 because of thestops 15 on the end of each pivot arm 3. These stops 15 extend upwardfrom the pivot arm 15 on the distal-most end of the pivot arm (i.e., theend opposite the end that attaches to the attachment arm 12). The pointat which the pivot arm 3 attaches to the attachment arm 12 is a pivotpoint, as described more fully below. FIG. 3 is a top view of thepresent invention shown with the main arm in a fully extended position.

In FIGS. 4-6, the roller wheels 14 have moved along the pivot arms 3 tothe halfway point between the stop 15 on one end of the pivot arm 3 andthe end of the pivot arm 3 that is attached to the attachment arm 12 (atthe pivot point). As the roller wheels 14 move along the pivot arms 3toward the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5, the main arm2 also moves closer (and in parallel to) the longitudinal side 5 a ofthe perimeter frame 5. As this happens, the cable tubing 13 is retractedinto the cable tray 8, and the actuator 11 also retracts.

Note that the brace arms 4 are still in the brace position as the mainarm 2 retracts (i.e., moves toward the longitudinal side 5 a of theperimeter frame 5). As shown in FIG. 5, each pivot arm 3 preferablycomprises a V-shaped under-support 3 a that provides added strength andstability for the pivot arm 3. As shown in FIG. 6, the main armpreferably comprises a saddle bracket 16 attached on the inside of themain arm 2 at the center of the main arm 2. The saddle bracket 16 isused to install a structure on top of the main arm 2 (as shown in FIGS.30 and 31).

In FIGS. 7-9, the roller wheels 14 have moved all the way along thepivot arms 3 to a point that is nearly, but not exactly, on top of thepivot point between the pivot arm 3 and the attachment arm 12. At thisjuncture, the main arm 2 is slightly above and adjacent to (i.e., justoutside of) the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5. Thebrace arms 4 may now be removed and stored in a transport position. Thebrace arms 4 must be removed in order to pivot the pivot arms 3 inward(i.e., toward the main arm 2).

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the brace arm of the present invention.As shown in this figure, the brace arm 4 preferably comprises threeextensions—one in the center of the brace arm 4 a and one on either endof the brace arm 4 b, 4 c. Although these extensions are shown in thefigures as downwardly extending, they could also be upwardly extending.

FIG. 10A is a detail perspective view of the brace arm in a braceposition. As shown in this figure, when the brace arm 4 is in a braceposition, the extension 4 a on one end of the brace arm 4 is positionedinside of a receptacle 19 on the inside of the pivot arm 3, roughly inthe center of the pivot arm 3. The extension 4 b on the other end of thebrace arm 4 is positioned inside of a receptacle 19 on the outside edgeof the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5. The extension 4 ain the center of the brace arm 4 is not used in this position.

FIG. 10B is a detail perspective view of the brace arm removed from thebrace position. As shown in this figure, to remove the brace arm 4,simply lift the two end extensions 4 b, 4 c out of the receptacles 19and lift the brace arm 4 upward.

FIG. 10C is a detail perspective view of the brace arm in a transportposition. In this position, the center extension 4 a is placed into thesame receptacle 19 that housed the end extension 4 c when the brace arm4 was in a brace position. In the transport position, the brace arm 4 isstowed up against the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5.

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the present invention with thepivot arms at a forty-five (45)-degree angle relative to the main arm.Once the brace arms 4 have been stowed in the transport position, thepivot arms 3 can be rotated (or pivoted) toward the main arm 2. As notedabove, the point at which the pivot arm 3 connects to the attachment arm12 is a pivot point. This pivot point is shown in detail in FIGS. 18-26and 33-34. As the pivot arm 3 is rotated inward (toward the main arm 2)at the pivot point on the attachment arm 12, the roller wheel 14, whichsits on top of the pivot arm 3 on the end closest to the attachment arm12, also pivots. Specifically, the roller wheel bracket 14 a comprisesan upwardly extending pin 14 b that is inserted into a hole 2 a oneither end of the main arm 2 (see FIG. 35); this pin 14 b rotates withinthe hole 2 a (and the sleeve 23 above the hole 2 a) so that the rollerwheel 14 can turn with the pivot arm 3 but rotate relative to the mainarm 2. FIG. 12 is a top view of the present invention with the pivotarms at a forty-five (45)-degree angle relative to the main arm.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show the pivot arms in a fully retracted position; thatis, each pivot arm 3 has been fully rotated (at the pivot point on theattachment arm 12) so that the pivot arms 3 now lie directly underneaththe main arm 2. Both the main arm 2 and the pivot arms 3 are nowparallel with the longitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5.

FIG. 15 is a detail perspective view of the pivot arms stowed on thecenter bracket of the main arm. As shown in this figure, when the pivotarms 3 are in a fully retracted or stowed position, the distal ends ofthe pivot arms 3 are placed on top of supporting brackets 17 a thatextend laterally from the center bracket 17. A pin or bolt 18 is theninserted through a hole in the distal end of the pivot arm 3 and alsothrough the supporting bracket 17 a to hold the pivot arm 3 in place.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the pivot arm of the present invention.As noted above, the distal end of each pivot arm 3 preferably comprisesan upwardly extending stop 15 that prevents the roller wheel 18 fromtraveling off the distal end of the pivot arm 3. This figure also showsthe V-shaped under-support 3 a and receptacle 19 mentioned above. Theproximal end of the pivot arm preferably comprises a downwardlyextending threaded bolt 20 and nut 21, which surrounds the bolt 20. Thisbolt 20 is fixedly attached to the proximal end of the pivot arm 3 (seeFIGS. 19-23 and 25-26), and it extends into a sleeve 22 in theattachment arm 12 (see FIGS. 33 and 34). The nut 21 can be raised orlowered on the bolt 20 to raise or lower the vertical position of thepivot arm 3 relative to the attachment arm 5.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the roller wheel and roller wheelbracket of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 35, the upwardlyextending pin 14 b is inserted into a hole 2 a on the underside of theend of the main arm 2 and is allowed to rotate freely within a sleeve 23located just above the hole 2 a. As shown in this figure, the rollerwheel 14 rotates about an axle 14 c that is secured to the roller wheelbracket 14 a with a nut 21.

FIG. 18 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fully extended, and FIG.19 is a section view of the pivot point shown in FIG. 18 (taken at A-A).As shown in FIG. 18, the pivot point at the top of the roller wheel 14(i.e., the upwardly extending pin 14 b) is offset vertically from thepivot point at the bolt 20 between the attachment arm 12 and the pivotarm 3.

FIG. 20 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm at a forty-five(45)-degree angle relative to the main arm, and FIG. 21 is a sectionview of the pivot point shown in FIG. 20 (taken at B-B). At this stage,the upwardly extending pin 14 b is nearly vertically aligned with thebolt 20.

FIG. 22 is a detail side view of the pivot point between the attachmentarm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fully retracted/stowed,and FIG. 23 is a section view of the pivot point shown in FIG. 22 (takenat C-C). At this stage, the upwardly extending pin 14 b is verticallyaligned with the bolt 20. Thus, as the distal end of the pivot arm 3 isrotated inward (toward the center bracket 17), the upper and lower pivotpoints align (that is, the upwardly extending pin 14 b and the bolt 20),and the main arm 2 is tightened up against the longitudinal side 5 a ofthe perimeter frame 5.

FIG. 24 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point shown in FIGS.18 and 19, FIG. 25 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point shownin FIGS. 20 and 21, and FIG. 26 is a detail perspective view of thepivot point shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. Note that in FIG. 24, the bracearm 4 is in a brace position, whereas in FIGS. 25 and 26, the brace arm4 is in a stowed position.

FIGS. 27-29 are a first top perspective view, a second top perspectiveview, and a top view, respectively, of the present invention shown withthe main arm in a fully extended position and with a manual actuationsystem. The only difference between these figures and FIGS. 1-3 is thatthe motor 10 and actuator 11 have been replaced with a lateral tube 24and a lateral rectangular conduit 25. The lateral tube 24 extends fromthe center bracket 17 to the lateral rectangular conduit 25, whichextends from one longitudinal side of the perimeter frame 5 to theother. The lateral rectangular conduit 25 houses a threaded lateralreceptacle (not shown) into which is received the lateral tube 24, whichis also preferably threaded. In this manner, the main arm 2 (and rollerwheels 14) can be moved toward or away from the longitudinal side 5 a ofthe perimeter frame 5 by rotating the lateral tube 24 in one directionor the other.

FIG. 30 is a first bottom perspective view, and FIG. 31 is a secondbottom perspective view, of the present invention shown with a structureon top of it. As shown in these figures, one half of the structure (inthis case, a portable home) is installed on top of the non-telescopingframe 1. The other half of the structure (the telescoping part) isinstalled onto the main arm 2 via the saddle bracket 16. This half ofthe structure telescopes into the first half of the structure (on top ofthe non-telescoping frame 1) as the main arm 2 is moved toward thelongitudinal side 5 a of the perimeter frame 5.

FIG. 32 is a detail perspective view of the roller wheel on the pivotarm with the main arm in a fully extended position. This figure showsmore clearly the stop 15 at the distal end of the pivot arm 3.

FIG. 33 is a detail perspective view of the pivot point between theattachment arm and the pivot arm shown with the pivot arm fullyextended. This figure clearly shows the sleeve 22 in the attachment arm12.

FIG. 34 is a detail bottom perspective view of the present inventionshowing the pivot point between the attachment arm and the pivot arm. Inthis figure, the brace arm 4 is in a stowed position, and the pivot arm3 is fully extended. Note that if necessary, the bolt 20 may extendthrough a hole 12 a in the bottom of the attachment arm 12.

The foregoing figures depict a typical configuration of the presentinvention in which the rectangular perimeter frame 5 is roughly sixteen(16) feet long: however, the present invention can be scaled toaccommodate configurations in which the rectangular perimeter frame 5 isup to sixty (60) feet long or longer. This is accomplished by addingpivot arms 3 and actuators 11. FIGS. 36-41 illustrate alternateembodiments of the present invention in which there are at least threepivot arms 3 and at least two actuators 11. All other details of theinvention remain the same as described above.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the present invention with three pivotarms and two actuators. FIG. 37 is a top view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 36. In this embodiment, the overall length of the rectangularperimeter frame 5 has been doubled (as compared to the embodiment shownin FIG. 1) by adding a single pivot arm 3 and actuator 11.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the present invention with four pivotarms and two actuators. FIG. 39 is a top view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 38. In this embodiment, an additional eight feet in length of therectangular perimeter frame 5 has been gained by adding another pivotarm 4 over the embodiment shown in FIGS. 36 and 37.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the present invention with four pivotarms and three actuators. FIG. 41 is a top view of the embodiment shownin FIG. 40. In this embodiment, the overall length of the rectangularperimeter frame 5 has been tripled (as compared to the embodiment shownin FIG. 1) by adding two more pivot arms 4 and two more actuators 11.

The actuation system shown in FIGS. 36-41 is the power actuation systemdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-26; however, these alternateembodiments may also be used with the manual actuation system describedin connection with FIGS. 27-29. In the latter embodiments (that is, withthe manual actuation system), the motor 10 and actuator 11 shown inFIGS. 36-41 are replaced with a lateral tube 24 and a lateralrectangular conduit 25, as shown in FIGS. 27-29.

FIG. 42-49 illustrate a series of alternate embodiments in which thereis no rectangular perimeter frame. Instead, there is a longitudinalsurface 26 in lieu of the longitudinal side 5 a of the rectangularperimeter frame 5. (Note that the longitudinal surface may be flat orcurved, beveled, rounded, etc.; the only criterion is that theattachment arms 12 must be able to attach to it.) Theseembodiments—shown with varying numbers of pivot arms and actuators—maybe used where there is an existing frame (for example, on asemi-trailer) to which the longitudinal surface 26 is secured (as inbolted, welded, etc.). Note that the attachment arms 12 are considerablyshorter than in the previously described embodiments (with therectangular perimeter frame). The invention operates in all respects asdescribed above in connection with the preceding embodiments.

Although the preferred embodiment of the present invention has beenshown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the artthat many changes and modifications may be made without departing fromthe invention in its broader aspects. The appended claims are thereforeintended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within thetrue spirit and scope of the invention.

We claim:
 1. A telescoping frame system comprising: (a) a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm, and a second attachment arm; (b) a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal surface; (c) a first pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel and a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel; and (d) a first brace arm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended and a second brace arm that maintains the second pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the second pivot arm is fully extended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the first attachment arm, and the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to the second attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end of the main arm, and the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to a second end of the main arm; wherein when the roller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal surface, the main arm is also moved toward the longitudinal surface and remains parallel to the longitudinal surface; and wherein when the main arm has been moved so that it is adjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms are removed to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward and secured to the main arm.
 2. A telescoping frame system comprising: (a) a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm, a second attachment arm, and a third attachment arm; (b) a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal surface; (c) a first pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel, a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel, and a third pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a third roller wheel; and (d) a first brace arm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended, a second brace arm that maintains the second pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the second pivot arm is fully extended, and a third brace arm that maintains the third pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the third pivot arm is fully extended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the first attachment arm, the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to the second attachment arm, and the third pivot arm is pivotally attached to the third attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end of the main arm, the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to a center of the main arm, and the third roller wheel is pivotally attached to a second end of the main arm; wherein when the roller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal surface, the main arm is also moved toward the longitudinal surface and remains parallel to the longitudinal surface; and wherein when the main arm has been moved so that it is adjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms are removed to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward and secured to the main arm.
 3. A telescoping frame system comprising: (a) a longitudinal surface, a first attachment arm, a second attachment arm, a third attachment arm, and a fourth attachment arm; (b) a main arm that is parallel to the longitudinal surface; (c) a first pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a first roller wheel, a second pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a second roller wheel, a third pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a third roller wheel, and a fourth pivot arm with a top surface that acts as a rail for a fourth roller wheel; and (d) a first brace arm that maintains the first pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the first pivot arm is fully extended, a second brace arm that maintains the second pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the second pivot arm is fully extended, a third brace arm that maintains the third pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the third pivot arm is fully extended, and a fourth brace arm that maintains the fourth pivot arm at a ninety-degree angle to the longitudinal surface when the fourth pivot arm is fully extended; wherein the first pivot arm is pivotally attached to the first attachment arm, the second pivot arm is pivotally attached to the second attachment arm, the third pivot arm is pivotally attached to the third attachment arm, and the fourth pivot arm is pivotally attached to the fourth attachment arm; wherein the first roller wheel is pivotally attached to a first end of the main arm, the second roller wheel is pivotally attached to the main arm at a point between the first end of the main arm and a second end of the main arm, the third roller wheel is pivotally attached to the main arm at a point between the first end of the main arm and the second end of the main arm, and the fourth roller wheel is pivotally attached to the second end of the main arm; wherein when the roller wheels are moved toward the longitudinal surface, the main arm is also moved toward the longitudinal surface and remains parallel to the longitudinal surface of the non-telescoping frame; and wherein when the main arm has been moved so that it is adjacent to the longitudinal surface, the brace arms are removed to allow the pivot arms to pivot, and the pivot arms are pivoted inward and secured to the main arm.
 4. The telescoping frame system of claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising a power actuation system for moving the main arm toward and away from the longitudinal surface.
 5. The telescoping frame system of claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising a manual actuation system for moving the main arm toward and away from the longitudinal surface. 